Pet Supplies Tips :: Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders: Where to Find Bird Feeders That are Squirrel Proof
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued just over 100 patents for squirrel proof bird feeders since the first in 1928. Most of these supposedly ingenious inventions have proved inadequate against these mid-sized rodents that can jump seven feet vertically and 11 feet sideways and have better acrobatic abilities than a professional trapeze artist.
Because squirrels are not only drawn to bird feeders, but also repel the birds, do damage to the feeders and eat up all the bird seed, they're often a major nuisance for backyard bird watchers. So, if you're looking for great squirrel proof bird feeders that actually work, keep reading.
Squirrel Buster Plus
The Squirrel Buster Plus is a basic, tubular feeder with a circular bird perch at its base. When a squirrel jumps on it, the squirrel's weight causes the perch to sink down, therefore closing access to the feeding holes. For a day or two, the squirrels will sit there and try to figure out the device, but eventually leave for better feeding grounds.
The Suet Sandwich
If you love watching woodpeckers (and can stand the noise), the Suet Sandwich is for you. Basically, two thin slices of suet -- favored by woodpeckers -- are wedged between two chunks of synthetic bark. The Suet Sandwich sells for approximately $35 and allows the long-tongued woodpeckers access to the suet beef fat, but not the squirrels.
Droll Yankees Squirrel-Proof Feeders
The Droll Yankees line of bird feeders first came out in 2000. Basically, the perch is motorized and will start to spin when a squirrel sits on it. The idea is that the squirrel will go flying. The battery requires recharging every eight to twelve weeks. For the past two years, the company's line of squirrel-tipping feeders has been extended to also include models with weight-activated, collapsible perches or trays. These models start at $79 and go up to $119.
Provide a Distraction
Probably your best defense against squirrel invaders is to simply give in and feed them too. Try buying block bird seed, which is heavily condensed into a compressed block, and placing it on the ground. Instead of putting in all that work too conquer your feeder, your squirrels will likely be content to nibble away at ground level.
Make Your Own
The amazing Instructables website has a great DIY project that teaches you how to construct your very own squirrel proof bird feeders for less than $10 and a day's labor. The project uses little more than some PVC piping, a few cable ties and a lot of ingenuity. You can find the project, along with pictures, right here – http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-build-a-Flexi-Perch-Squirrel-proof-birdfe/?ALLSTEPS.
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